The community is invited to “Walk, Remember and Love” on May 5 during Hawaii Care Choices’ 14th annual Celebration of Life at Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
Those walking the 2-mile course will raise needed funds in support of palliative, hospice and bereavement care for the East Hawaii community. In addition, attendees can purchase luminaries, or start their own online fundraising campaign to help the organization cover unreimbursed medical expenses and provide needed support services.
The event is focused on remembering those that are gone but not forgotten.
“We use lanterns as a symbol to help people remember loved ones are always in their hearts,” said bereavement counselor Anjali Kala. “Watching the lanterns glide on the water also helps those in grief express emotion and provides a shared experience with others, reminding participants that they are not alone on their healing journey.”
Registration opens at 3:30 p.m. The walk begins at 5 p.m. followed by the lantern ceremony at 7. The lantern launch will be accompanied by music from Harmony on Tap.
Luminaries are $20 before event day and $25 if purchased at the celebration. Prizes will be awarded to teams and individuals who raise the most funds.
Those interested in registering for the walk, purchasing a lantern or starting a fundraiser can visit www.hawaiicarechoices.org or call development and education coordinator Lisa Kwee at 969-1733.